Australia’s first assistance dog program to help people and their families live with dementia.

Expressions of Interest have now closed

Thank you for your interest in the Dogs 4 Dementia program. Applications have now closed. If you require dementia-related support, please contact The Dementia Centre on (02) 8437 7355. If you have further inquiries about service dogs, please call Assistance Dogs Australia on 1800 688 364.

HOW CAN DOGS HELP PEOPLE WITH DEMENTIA?

Through special training an assistance dog is taught to respond to cues in ways that promote confidence and independence in a person living with dementia. They devotedly offer a paw of support and companionship when in the home or out-and-about accessing the community.

DOGS DELIVERING BENEFITS

Routine & Reminders

Routine can become difficult for those with dementia. Dogs are creatures of habit and can be trained to support daily routine, responding to timed alarms to remind owners of essential daily tasks.

Social interaction

Dogs can act as a bridge to local communities - encouraging conversation and friendship that does not rely on memory. Focusing on the dog can help friends old and new start and maintain relationships with someone with dementia.

Emotional support

Dementia can be a very lonely and frightening experience. Dogs are loyal companions void of any human prejudice providing 24/7 comfort and reassurance.

Out & About

Dementia can lead to isolation through lack of confidence in leaving one’s house. Walking with a dog provides a companion who can reassure and a means of exercise that feels safe.

Anchoring

For a person with dementia dogs can act as a physical anchor: allowing a carer to focus elsewhere, and an emotional anchor: helping one feel safe when alone.

Family Carer Support

The role of the carer is often lonely and stressful, dogs can provide joy and companionship to the whole family.